asked the Minister for Agriculture the financial aid schemes presently available to assist small farmers to increase their holdings to a viable size.
Written Answers. - Small Farmers Financial Aids.
154.
There is no scheme of direct financial aid to assist small farmers to increase their holdings to a viable size. However, the Deputy will be aware of the operations of the Land Commission in regard to the acquisition and division of estates among smallholders with a land need. The purchase moneys of such allotments are repaid by the allottees by way of annuities over extended periods. In addition, allottees in the western areas benefit from the statutory halving of annuities.
As I have said on a number of occasions, the aim of the Government's new land policy will be to assist the deserving smallholder to compete effectively in the market for such extra acres as are necessary to provide a satisfactory living for himself and his family.